The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has officially announced that political parties will begin their primary elections for the governorship race in Anambra State on March 20, 2025, with the process expected to wrap up by April 10, 2025. The 2025 Anambra primaries sets the stage for one of the most closely-watched elections in the state, scheduled to take place on November 8, 2025.
In a statement released on Thursday, Sam Olumekun, INEC’s National Commissioner and Chairman of the Information and Voter Education Committee, detailed the plans for the primaries. Olumekun emphasized the importance of sticking to the established timetable. He explained that adherence to this schedule is crucial for ensuring that the elections are free, fair, and credible.
INEC’s Clear Timeline and Guidelines for 2025 Anambra primaries
During the regular weekly meeting on Thursday, March 6, 2025, INEC reviewed its preparations for the upcoming off-cycle governorship election in Anambra State. Olumekun reminded political parties that according to Section 28(1) of the Electoral Act 2022, the Notice of Election was published over 360 days in advance – on November 13, 2024. This early notification confirms the commission’s commitment to transparency and proper planning.
Olumekun further stressed that political parties must adhere strictly to the election timetable. “By the provision of the Timetable and Schedule of Activities for the election, the conduct of primaries for the nomination of candidates by political parties commences in the next two weeks, i.e. March 20, 2025, and ends on April 10, 2025,” he stated. This directive not only marks the beginning of the 2025 Anambra primaries but also reinforces the importance of early planning and coordination ahead of the gubernatorial election, scheduled for November 8, 2025.
According to INEC, out of the 19 registered political parties in the country, 12 have already submitted their schedules for the primaries. Early submission of these schedules plays a crucial role in the commission’s ability to monitor the primary process effectively, as outlined in Section 84 of the Electoral Act 2022. The remaining seven parties have been urged to submit their schedules without delay. This prompt action is essential to ensure that monitoring can be carried out smoothly and any potential issues can be addressed promptly.
He said, early submission of primary schedules is not just a procedural step; it is vital for reducing logistical challenges. Sudden changes to dates, venues, or formats could result in the demobilisation and subsequent remobilisation of monitoring teams, which in turn could disrupt the election process and lead to increased costs. INEC’s clear warning against last-minute alterations underlines the importance of adhering to the established guidelines.
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